Computer diagnostic model of a high-voltage suspension polymer insulator

RELEVANCE. In the process of developing diagnostic devices for technical objects, it is often very useful to create computer models of how these objects function. An adequate and universal model, for instance, of an operating insulating structure on an overhead power line (OHL) support, can significantly reduce the resources and time required for field experiments and tests when developing its diagnostic devices. OBJECTIVE. To create a computer model of the operation of an insulating structure on an overhead power line (OHL) support and on a laboratory setup, with a set of electrical parameters and characteristics necessary for diagnosing its condition. The simulation tasks included determining the distributions of the electric field, voltages, and currents in the space surrounding the insulator, taking into account the object's geometry, including external structural elements. METHODS. To achieve the set objective, the finite element method and the COMSOL Multiphysics software were used. The validation of the developed models was carried out by comparing the simulation results with measurements of the electrical parameters and characteristics of insulators in analogous laboratory and OHL configurations. RESULTS. The simulation resulted in the creation of a model of the operation of a suspension polymer insulator on an OHL and in a laboratory. Its adequacy and universality were proven during laboratory and field tests using sensors based on the principle of capacitive coupling and leakage current measurement. During the validation of the laboratory model, the calculated leakage current value for a dry insulator agreed with the measured one, with a deviation of less than 5%. The selection of the capacitive sensor electrode size (20x20 cm²), based on the simulation results, was confirmed as correct during field tests of prototypes of the SKAT-DI online insulation monitoring system on a 110 kV OHL.

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